Have you noticed more and more people speaking Swedish around lately? I live near Alicante, and it feels like I’m constantly running into Swedish families viewing properties, or my new neighbors have just moved from Stockholm or Gothenburg. Last week, while having a drink at a beachside chiringuito, the table next to me was filled with three Swedish families chatting away. It feels like they’ve practically taken over the area! This got me wondering: what makes Spain so attractive to Swedes?
Why Spain?
I chatted with a Swedish neighbor, and the reasons are actually quite simple yet very practical. First and foremost, it’s the sunshine! Sweden’s winters are long and dark, with little to no sun for nearly half the year, which can be tough on both mind and body. In contrast, Spain, especially the southern coast, boasts over 300 days of sunshine a year—it’s paradise for them. Secondly, there’s the cost of living. Although prices in Spain have been rising, they are still significantly lower than in Scandinavia, whether it’s dining out, daily groceries, or the property prices themselves. Their Swedish pensions can afford them a very comfortable lifestyle in Spain.
Popular Property Hotspots for Swedes
They don’t just buy anywhere; their choices are highly concentrated in two main areas: the Costa del Sol and the Costa Blanca. I’ve briefly summarized their characteristics, and you can find more on the property buying conditions in Spain:
| Region | Main Cities | Characteristics |
|---|
| Costa del Sol | Marbella, Fuengirola, Mijas | More luxurious atmosphere, many golf courses, higher property prices |
| Costa Blanca | Alicante, Torrevieja, Orihuela Costa | Great value for money, mature communities, very high concentration of Swedes |
Torrevieja is even known as the ‘Swedish capital’ of Spain. It has Swedish schools, supermarkets, and churches, forming a huge community that allows newcomers to integrate seamlessly without worrying about language barriers or fitting in.
When it comes to the types of properties they prefer, I’ve noticed that new, modern apartments or villas are particularly popular. A pool, a large terrace, and a sea view would make it perfect. They place a high value on the quality of the property and its amenities, such as proximity to golf courses and easy access to the airport. Many Swedes who come here end up staying, forming what they jokingly call “svenskkolonier” (Swedish colonies)—small communities where they play golf, socialize, and enjoy a very pleasant life.
Spain’s sunshine, food, relaxed pace of life, and excellent value for money perfectly match the Swedish ideal of a second home. This trend is likely to continue in the coming years. Do you have any Swedish neighbors? What are your thoughts on this phenomenon? Let’s discuss!
